Language explaining income tax issue to voters approved

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — The Illinois General Assembly has approved language that explains the pros and cons of adding a graduated rate to the income tax system.

The House on Friday adopted a joint resolution that provides for information to go to voters before the Nov. 3 election. It received a 71-45 vote after similar overwhelming approval on Thursday by the Senate, like the House controlled by Democrats.

Voters will be asked whether to amend the state Constitution. It requires that an income tax be flat, set at the same rate for everyone. Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker campaigned in 2018 on a graduated rate program. It would charge higher rates on higher levels of income.

The resolution approved spells out the language that the Secretary of State must mail to all voters this fall to explain the ballot question and provide arguments in favor and against.

It includes the contention that the current system unfairly benefits the very rich while the new system would assess those making $250,000 or less at the current 4.95% rate or less. Arguments against are that Illinois' fiscal management has been awry for decades and needs to be straightened out before lawmakers get more revenue.